Reviewer's Choice

A diploma is not a guarantee for success. "Street Smarts: Beyond the Diploma" is a guide to the
real world for recent graduates of high school and college to dealing with many aspects of the
self and life. From investing in the self, dealing with failure, creating links with others, personal
finance, and much more, Jim Randel suggests much for developing the will power to attain
success and dealing with the gauntlet life all too often throws at us. "Street Smarts" is an
excellent gift for any new entrant into the real world.

An Iowa Schoolma'am: Letters of Elizabeth "Bess" Corey, 1904-1908 gathers the early
correspondence of "Bachelor Bess", as she embarked on teaching a one-room Iowa school. Her
letters to her family tell of how she clashed with reluctant students, arranged performances to
entertain the community, endured the vagaries of boarding with different landlords, and much
more. A lively storyteller, she gives a wonderfully vivid picture of daily life in Iowa over a
hundred years ago. An Iowa Schoolma'am is a thoroughly engaging read from cover to cover, and
highly recommended especially for college library collections.

The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Psychic Self-Defense: The Classic Instruction Manual for Protecting Yourself Against
Paranormal Attack is a classic occult manual by Dion Fortune (1891-1946), who herself survived
psychic attack at a young age. Her instructional text reaches beyond simple safeguarding against
psychic intrusion and supernatural encounters, warning readers that the greatest dangers can
come from human ignorance - malignance in the mind of fellow human beings inexorably
transforming into a horrific and hostile force. "I well remember it being said to me by an occultist
of great experience that two things are necessary for safety in occultism, right motives and right
associates. We lull ourselves into false security if we believe that good intentions are sufficient
protection." As relevant today as it was the better part of a century ago, Psychic Self-Defense is
highly recommended especially for metaphysical studies shelves.

Are there people working solely to prevent the truth from getting out there? "The Real Men in
Black: Evidence, Famous Cases, and True Stories of These Mysterious Men and Their
Connection to UFO Phenomena" discusses the existence of a real Men in Black whose supposed
task is silencing those who have witnessed UFOs and other bizarre phenomena. Nick Redfern
seeks to offer his evidence of such a group throughout the world and how they have interfered in
the discovery of these bizarre things throughout the world. "The Real Men in Black" is worth
considering for anyone who wants to understand these figures who are mysterious as the things
they try to prevent.

Prehistory holds many mysteries to our world. "Maps of the Ancient Sea Kings" searches for the
evidence of an ancient culture that predates ancient Egypt by thousands of years. A reprinting of
a 1966 book from Charles Hapgood, it focuses on the curiosity of a map that shows Antarctica,
centuries before it was sighted by explorers officially. Stating that it may have been knowledge of
a far advanced civilization that understood Antarctica's ice age origins and map making skill
beyond that of typical 16th century Europe, "Maps of Ancient Sea Kings" is a worth while pick
for metaphysical students of prehistory's mysteries and the origins of civilization.

Hearing the voices of the dead can lead you through a very strange lot in life. "The Medium Next
Door: Adventures of a Real-Life Ghost Whisperer" is a memoir of Maureen Hancock as she tells
her story of her common life turned common. A mother who is struggling to raise her children
like any other, who just happens to be able to come in contact with the dead. She tells her story of
how she learned of her talent, and how she has used it in her career to expose fraud. "The
Medium Next Door" is a unique story of the metaphysical and memoir that blends real life
challenges and the pressures of contacting the other side.

Ten years ago, it was laughable that the entire internet could fit on our pockets, with much ease.
It's a reality now without much impressiveness. "Do You Quantum Think?: New Thinking That
Will Rock Your World" discusses thinking and consciousness in our science dominated 21st
century. Stating that the old trains of thoughts won't work with the future, Dianne Collins
presents a fascinating break down of thought and what the future world holds for our train of
thought. With a discussion of future politics, social issues, spirituality, and much more, "Do You
Quantum Think?" is a fine and fascinating look at the future of human thought.

The history of San Francisco is a riveting one of hopes, dreams, and the failures of both. "The
Ghost Detectives' Guide to Haunted San Francisco" is a guide to the paranormally curious to the
many haunted sights, not-sights, and creepy sounds that lurk with this city. With notes on
Alcatraz, Chinatown, and many less famous destinations, "The Ghost Detective's Guide to
Haunted San Francisco" is a must for any amateur ghost hunter who may be visiting the city
soon.

There is a past to the earth and humanity that we shall never know all the answers to. "Elder
Gods of Antiquity" looks into our deep prehistory in looking for answers. Metaphysical in
approach, M. Don Schorn hopes to investigate the existence of extraterrestrial influence in our
history and hopes to find a new understanding of what lied deep in our history, the foundations of
our mythology, and much more. "Elder Gods of Antiquity" is a choice pick for any metaphysical
studies collection.

The Tarot has long been a means of divining matters of love and relationships, of 'tall dark
strangers' and anticipated soul mates. Now author and metaphysical expert Jane Lyle has
developed a truly striking and memorable set of 78 tarot cards in glorious color showcasing a
distinctly visual theme of romance. Of special note is the inclusion of a 64-page instruction book
for those new to tarot readings. Superbly illustrated, "The Lovers' Tarot Deck" is especially
recommended for both students and seasoned practitioners seeking insights into all matters of the
heart and hearth.

The Martial Arts Shelf

Relaxation can be an artform all in itself. "Sunset Tai Chi: Simplified Tai Chi for Relaxation and
Longevity" discusses how Tai Chi can be used by anyone to improve their quality of life. Ramel
Rones, world renowned martial artist shows how simple exercises from the art can play well into
one's life, improving rest time, sleep, clearing one's mind, and overall general health, while
combating many ailments that set in from poor health. "Sunset Tai Chi" is worth considering for
anyone who feels even their relaxation is too stressful.

The World History Shelf

A country's natural beauty is important for many reasons, and Canada created the first agency
dedicated to maintaining them. "A Century of Parks Canada 1911-2011" studies Canada's
foundation of its Dominion Parks branch in 1911 and how over the past century it has worked
towards maintaining its natural beauty. With a message of benefit, enjoyment, and education for
Canadians, this program proves to be an intriguing study of environmentalism and nationalism.
"A Century of Parks Canada 1911-2011" is a fine pick for any history and nature collection for
community library collections.

With a little bit of everyone calling it home, you got a little bit of everything. "Opening Doors: In
Vancouver's East End: Strathcona" discusses this east side of the massive city of Vancouver,
British Columbia, a district that was called home to many minorities in blacks, Asians, eastern
Europeans, among others. This rich blend of heritage leads to a very interesting and thoughtful
history, of Vancouver, of British Columbia, and of Canada. "Opening Doors" is a fine pick for
anyone who wants to embrace this historical area that music legend Jimi Hendrix once called
home.

Hitler was the man who eventually killed Hitler, yet it was not for lack of trying by the Allied
forces. "Hitler in the Crosshairs: A GI's Story of Courage and Faith" chronicles the attempts of
Ira Palm, an American GI who was called to do what many Allied soldiers probably wish they
could have the opportunity to do- capture or kill Nazi Germany's infamous leader, Adolf Hitler.
Composed of real events thoroughly researched, the tale reads much like fiction, surrounding the
assassination attempts on the madman's life and his fabled golden gun. "Hitler in the Crosshairs"
is a different sort of World War II book, telling of events rarely spoken of, enthusiastically
recommended.

The Business Shelf

To embrace the ease of communication of the internet yet maintain one's privacy, one must set up
an intranet, and run it well. "The Intranet Management Handbook" is a guide aimed at businesses
who want to excellently execute their own intranet network. Martin White applies his knowledge
for readers in understanding the challenges of such a project, laying out a plan to create it, its
many applications for business, managing the technological side, and allowing those who need to
use it to do so effectively and efficiently. Enhanced with appendixes and organized in an easy to
access and use style, "The Intranet Management Handbook" should be on hand for any
technology department for any business where speed of communication is essential for
success.

Making the World Work Better: The Ideas That Shaped a Century and a Company is the
extraordinary true story of the IBM company and its lasting impact on the evolution of modern
technology. Chapters cover IBM's role in pioneering the science of information, how IBM
reinvented the structure of a modern corporation and went global, and their role in everything
from mapmaking to medical treatments for HIV and AIDS. A handful of full-color illustrations
enhance this celebration of not only IBM's achievements, but also the underlying philosophies
that drove them over the course of one hundred years.

If you don't make that lunge for success, you'll be waiting awhile for it to be dumped on your
head. "Go For It!: A Practical Guide to Success for Everyone" is a motivational guide aimed at
business in particular but author John Tassone holds that the wisdom and morals within ring true
in any pursuit of success. Promoting drive and an active approach, Tassone advises readers on
public speaking, being assertive, and other elements of successful people. "Go For It!" is a must
for anyone who wants to kick up their drive for success.

The great leaders have all passed. "Leadership is Dead: How Influence is Reviving It" discussing
the power of influence, something author Jeremie Kubicek feels is the most powerful yet most
underused asset in leadership today. In the name of self-preservation, he writes, we kill any
chance of us taking risk and making a serious move to become something truly great and not just
another self-obsessed and worthless leader in name only. Although writing as a businessman,
Kubicek's words can be placed on any field and still ring quite true. "Leadership is Dead" is
worth considering for anyone who wants to become a true leader of their organization.

Getting the power is easy, using it well is the hard part. "Being the Boss: The 3 Imperatives for
Becoming a Greater Leader" discusses what must be done to be an effective manager, and a great
leader, the two sides that are needed to being an excellent boss. Linda Hill and Kent Lineback
further describe what makes a boss great, the common pitfalls into mediocrity, and that one must
be aware of the direction you are leading your group at all times. An act that will not come
overnight, "Being the Boss" is worthy reading for those who have been given the mantle of
leadership and want to flourish, not flounder, with it.

The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

A character is more than a description and loosely connected pile of traits. "Stagecraft:
Stanislavsky & External Acting Techniques" is a guide to embracing acting from Robert
Blumenfeld, as he advises would be actors on how to use the Stanislavsky method of acting, of
developing a character on the stage, knowing the many details that will be known on the stage
and that will lead to more authentic performances on the stage. Looking not only the lessons of
Stanislavsky but his successors, "Stagecraft" will prove an excellent pick for an scholar of acting
who reads with a curiosity or wants to enhance their own performances.

The immortality of film doesn't extend to the actors themselves, and a last monument to memory
is all the families and fans of them have to remember them. "Fade to Black: Graveside Memories
of Hollywood Greats 1927-1950" is a tour guide to the grave site memorials to many of the
legends of Hollywood during said era, offering a profile of each, noting their most famed works,
what is left of their earthly remains, and where their memorial site can be found. "Fade to Black"
is a strong pick for any diehard fan of this classical era of cinema.

The Homeowner's Shelf

Expansion is one way to keep a home meeting your needs and dreams. "The Complete Guide to
Room Additions" discusses the many ins and outs of do-it-yourself home improvement on the
scale of adding rooms to one's home. Adding on to one's home is very much cheaper than buying
a new home when one's old home fails to meet your needs. In a comprehensive guide, Black &
Decker walk readers through the planning stages, converting old rooms, and all the details in the
process. For anyone planning expansion of their home, they'd do well to consider "The Complete
Guide to Room Additions".

The estimate is a key aspect of the business, affecting customer satisfaction quite strongly.
"Estimating Electrical Construction Revised: Step-by-Step Procedures for Manual and
Computerized Electrical Estimating" is a guide for electricians and those who will need contract
work to electricians on understanding the process to the fullest and trying to get it as accurate as
possible. Processes discussed are project election, bidding, overhead estimation, the use of PCs,
and many other aspects. A technical guide that is complete and comprehensive, "Estimating
Electrical Construction Revised" is a must for anyone who is going to be tasked with an
electrician's contract estimate.

The Interior Design Shelf

Simplicity is an art form lost on many in the modern day. "Simply Imperfect: Revisiting the
Wabi-Sabi House" discusses the simplicity and axing the superficial around one's home and
breaking free of the consumerism bug. Robyn Griggs Lawrence advises readers on how to purge
clutter and crowdedness out of one's home wisely, using cheap and salvaged items in your home,
and the power of self-construction. Embracing spirituality and clear headedness in design,
"Simply Imperfect" is filled with strong wisdom for anyone who is tired of paying money for
unhappiness in their home.

The Money/Finance Shelf

Grasping and understanding data is a key avenue of success when investing money in today's
market. "Microsoft Excel for Stock and Option Traders" is a guide for those who want to use this
common software to enhance their success in the market today. Explaining the basics of a trading
platform, how to use Excel to collect your information and write macros for more ease of
analysis, Jeff Augen does well in explaining how to get the most out of the software. The aim of
the program is to spot trends as they form so one can grab growing properties for maximum
profit. A guide that places great and appropriate emphasis on the business power of knowledge
and success, "Microsoft Excel for Stock and Option Traders" is very much recommended reading
for anyone who wants to enhance their market playing skills, and for community library
collections dedicated to trading.

The Memoir Shelf

Across from the Alley Next Door to the Pool Room is a warm-hearted memoir of growing up in
the close-knit South Philadelphia Jewish Community. An involving account of living amid
strong family bonds, celebrated holiday and special event rituals, and the vivid cultural values
that shaped everyday life, Across from the Alley Next Door to the Pool Room evokes the essence
of interconnection and heritage shared among such communities. Highly recommended. "During
the latter years of elementary school, the need for socialization increased as we little girls started
to leave childhood. Without the diversions of television, malls, video games, and the panoply of
recreation available to kids today, we had more time for what would be called 'interpersonal
relationships.' In other words, we talked to each other. I'm not sure about pre-teen boys, but for
girls this took the form of clubs."

There's more to be learned from the medical profession than what to take when you have a
headache. "White Coat Wisdom" as they share a certain frank and humorous wisdom about life
in their encounters with the many people they encounter in weakened and vulnerable states and
how no matter how far gone we may be going, we never lose humanity. From the terror of having
the forces of life and death under your control, the joy when the odds are conquered, the marvels
of skill, and the humility and humor that go around during the more ridiculous but necessary
parts of the life. "White Coat Wisdom" is filled with sound advice on health, life, and a reminder
that even doctors have to face life's challenges.

Life on a farm seems to be becoming more and more a relic of the past. "When Horses Pulled
Plow: Life of a Wisconsin Farm Boy" is a memoir from Olaf F. Larson as he looks back to the
first nineteen years of his life and his upbringing in a rural Wisconsin. His family tended tobacco
and livestock, and he recalls vividly his experiences up to when he finally stepped off that farm
and into a very different world of adulthood. "When Horses Pulled Plow" is a strongly
recommended pick for any agricultural memoir collection.

There's never any time to feel sorry for yourself. "Inside My Window" is a memoir of Debra
Ackerman who recalls her journey through life. Faced with challenge, loss, and more, she
remembers the good times of her husband and her children, and how anxiety is something to be
overcome and beat, not to let dominate one's life. "Inside my Window" is a poignant read of a
woman born in rural Wisconsin, highly recommended.

To understand good acting, one must understand the mind. "Rants and Raves: Opinions,
Tributes, and Elegies" is a memoir and collection of thought from man of the theatre Robert
Brustein as he shares his own experiences and what he has learned over the years through butting
heads with other people of the theatre, engaging in debates about society and where we are going.
"Rants and Raves" is a fascinating and very much recommended read that shouldn't be
overlooked.

When your rule grows more unjust, the rebellion will only grow fiercer. "The Day Nina Simone
Stopped Singing" is a memoir from Lebanese woman Darina Al-Joundi as she tells of the decline
of Lebanon's freedom and how even under the threat of the law, she lived life to find her own
freedom, no matter the consequences from the powers that be or of the life she lived in defiance.
A story of a woman passionate about personal freedom, "The Day Nina Simone Stopped
Singing" is a riveting addition to any memoir or woman's studies collection.

We want to avoid making the mistakes of the past generations as we want future generations to
avoid our mistakes, but sometimes they are unavoidable. "Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: I Am My
Mother After All!" is a memoir from Susan Kane-Ronning who in reflections of her own life
realized that she made a lot of the same mistakes that her mother made, and comes to term with
the own challenges of her own childhood and realizes that while she avoided some of the pitfalls,
there are some things that have to be figured out for the self. Written to appeal to a wide audience
but with the expertise of psychology from the author, "Mirror, Mirror on the Wall" is an
intriguing read that will resound well with many readers who will be encouraged to look back at
their own parents.

Cancer is something one person cannot beat alone. "Embrace, Release, Heal: An Empowering
Guide to Talking About, Thinking About, and Treating Cancer" is a memoir of health and
beating cancer by Leigh Fortson as she discusses being diagnosed with cancer thrice in three
years. A tale of personal heroism, she states that positive thinking and a drive to match it helped
her overcome impossible odds. Sharing her own journey, she hopes it will help others to never
lose hope and never let despair allow cancer victory. "Embrace, Release, Heal" is well worth
considering for those facing or know someone facing this tough challenge of life.

No language, no culture, how many hurdles can love jump over to potentially create a successful
marriage? "The Natural Laws of Good Luck: A Memoir of an Unlikely Marriage" tells of an
unusual story between one Ellen Graf, a middle aged and exhausted with the personals scene
takes a suggestion to visit a Chinese friend's brother in China who is in a similar predicament.
Embracing marriage on a whim, their attempts to connect lead to a humorous yet poignant story
of love and trying to make it work. "The Natural Laws of Good Luck" is a humorous tale of how
sometimes you don't need language to put it all together.

Infidelity isn't only a matter of men failing to keep it in their pants; infidelity knows no gender.
"When the Wife Cheats" is a demonstration of infidelity's effects on the man. Frank Zaccari
reflects on his own failing relationship with his wife Denise. When he found out, she left, and left
him with their two daughters are nearly twenty years of marriage. "When the Wife Cheats" is a
thoughtful read that will resonate well with other men spurned by the dishonesty of their former
wives.

The Fiction Shelf

The bounty and potential of America has all too often overwhelmed its people. "Walter Meets
Mack: A Minnesota Adventure" is a novel following immigrant Walter, as he tries to come to
terms with Minnesota and its vastness. A dedication to the immigrants who came and made
Minnesota what it was, "Walter Meets Mack" is a touching work of historical fiction with a
charming dedication to the immigrant spirit that fuels much of America.

The pursuit of something greater trumps everything, even the law. "Uncertain Journey" is a novel following Albanian Rejep as he seeks America for his future. As he finds one friend who themselves risk to help him, he finds that his troubles do not end as he leaves his war-torn country, and how he learns the importance of the power of love and friendship through the worst of it all. "Uncertain Journey" is a moving and timely read, very much recommended.

The drive of the writer is an enigma to even writers. "Correspondence: An Adventure in Letters"
is a novel from N. John Hall that explores the relics left behind to Larry Dickerson, who finds a
slew of letters he shared with many of the great writers in the western world of the past. A retired
bank clerk, Larry seeks money more than all else, and working with a British Scholar of
Literature in Stephen Nicholls, he finds that he can get his money, but he will pick up much more
valuable along the way. "Correspondence" is a fascinating read that will prove hard to put down,
highly recommended.

We run from our lives, put up a facade, but the truth will eventually emerge. "Lilies in
Moonlight" tells the story of the broken down family of Cullen Burnside, trying to cope with his
own losses during the first world war, and the energetic and cheery flapper who stumbles into his
life. This bizarre meeting will bring much truth into the lives of both involved, as both of their
painful pasts will mingle and leave them with something greater than it all. A riveting historical
romance, "Lilies in Moonlight" is a fine pick and is very much recommended reading.

Returning to atrocity twenty years later doesn't change that atrocity happened. "The Absent Sea"
is the story of a judge who flees Chile after a military coup leaves the region under corrupt
military rule. After two decades pass, Laura returns home and faces what she left behind,
including a family she left behind and who aren't forgiving of her abandonment. Confronting
how rifts of a nation create wounds that take a long time to heal and how to face a family you left
to their fate, "The Absent Sea" is a poignant and gripping novel, very highly recommended.

Everyone makes mistakes in life, but it's how we recover from them that counts. "Rearview
Sunset" is a novel following Beau Jamison as he tries to make his life work. Moving through the
Midwest, he meets many people and learns much about how it all works. A fascinating and
poignant coming of age tale, "Rearview Sunset" is an excellent addition to community library
general fiction collections, a worthy and recommended choice.

A shot at something better is all we really ever ask for. "A Marriage of Convenience" is a
collection of short stories from Andrew Plattner who comes at readers with tales of life, with a
good deal of influence from a pastime of the author's, horse racing. But not every tale is founded
in that particular endeavor, as they are fundamentally stories of people and our constant quest to
improve our lot. "A Marriage of Convenience" is an excellent pick for short fiction collections,
highly recommended.

No one knows cruelty like women. "The Paper Rose Club" is a small town drama of women out
to beat women as the many women of Honycomb, Alabama claw at each other directly and
indirectly to get ahead. Roxie wants to keep her bakery from Imogene, and also must keep her
love away from her 'friend' and dealing with the many other women in her life that makes it
complicated. A story of the viciousness of the fairer sex that many women will relate to, "The
Paper Rose Club" is a fun and hard-to-put-down read.

Determination of one's own destiny is worth almost anything. "House of the Fortunate Buddhas"
tells the story of one woman in post World War II Brazil who is struggling to find herself. But
through sheer determination, she finds her way through life, in ways where she takes control of
her mind, her body, and her life, as author Joao Ubaldo Ribeiro speaks on many issues of Brazil
in a unique way. Translated from the original Portuguese by Clifford Landers, "House of the
Fortunate Buddhas" is an excellent addition to any community library world fiction
collection.

The secrets of a loved one may turn them into some one you never thought could exist. "A Brief
Madness" is a novel of how a family comes to term with the death of a loved one, along with the
revelation of his dark and sinister past as a serial killer. With sudden attention from anywhere
and everywhere, their coping erupts all around them, as they try to sort out what to believe, while
facing the families of the victims of their serial killer husband and father. A riveting read with an
intriguing take on the effects of murder, "A Brief Madness" is a solid and very much
recommended read for mystery fiction collections.

Justice never comes easily, and those who try to push it may find themselves with no justice and
dead. "False Witness" tells a dual story of a bail bondsman who is racing against time while
telling the story of a law student who must contend with both the law and the mob to find the
truth behind it all. Blending both story lines into something never before seen, "False Witness" is
an absolute must for any suspense fiction reader who likes a book that never lets up.

For some, Jesus isn't there as much as he should be. "Jesusville" is a novel from Philip Cioffari
as breaks down a dystopian region with plenty of intriguing characters trying to plot out their
own lives, trying to find their own redemption and answers. Set around a Biblical theme park
with everyone moving towards what may just be Judgment day, "Jesusville" is a profound and
thought provoking read of life and everything else as we try to find our own place in the
world.

Disease is no longer a weapon of nature, it can be a weapon of war. "White Sleeper" is a thriller
from David Fett & Stephen Langford as they craft a story of a white supremacist group who have
sinister intentions for the world. It lies on Dave Richards, a doctor with some baggage who may
have to save more than his career in order to break through and stop a catastrophe. "White
Sleeper" is a riveting read, very much worth considering.

One utterance leads a black French Canadian on quite the adventure. "I am a Japanese Writer"
follows said black French Canadian as his declaration lands him a book deal and grants him
publicity that any writer would simply love. Guaranteed to have a hit, there's the problem that he
cannot write a word of said hit, and the celebrity that has suddenly visited his life isn't helping
things. A quirky yet unique read of celebrity and wishes gone wrong, "I am a Japanese Writer" is
a choice pick for literary fiction collections, highly recommended.

Of the many things restricted by the Amish, passion is not one of them. "Beside Still Waters" is a
work of Christian romance set in an Amish community. Marianna Sommers, who has spent her
entire life stalked by her past of tragedy, and being uprooted from her Indiana home and away
from her childhood home leaves her without the only joy in her life. Moved to Montana, she may
have found another, but no love comes without a cost. "Beside Still Waters" is a moving work of
Christian fiction, not to be missed by Romance fans looking for something that works in
faith.

As humanity falls further and further into decadence, it will take the brilliance of the ages to right
us off our course to hell. "The Final Summit: A Quest to Find the One Principle That Will Save
Humanity" is a novel following aging business tycoon David Ponder as he copes with the loss of
the love of his life, contemplating ending that said life himself. But as he hears a call that
humanity needs him, he must learn what has guided us to success in the past as he joins with the
minds of the past. Churchill, Carver, and many others in an all star line up of historical thought,
"The Final Summit" seeks to ponder humanity and how we got where we are and why we are
going where we're going.

The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

In the grand religious debate, the moderate is often silenced in a sea of extremes. "In Defense of
Religious Moderation" discusses the moderate in today's increasingly important debates.
Fundamentalism and atheism are perhaps two sides of the same coin, argues William Egginton.
Further claiming that the very code that extreme believers follow makes them unable to
understand the middle or the other side, he states that moderation must somehow win out as a
sort of scientific method for religious faith. "In Defense of Religious Moderation" is a very much
recommended read for anyone trying to understand extremes and moderation in the modern
religious debate.

Study and thought are a requirement for any discipline to grow and flourish. "The Catholic
Studies Reader" discusses an intellectual revival in the Catholic Church and its importance in the
future survival of the faith as a whole. History, literature, culture, and much more are the many
aspects of Catholic Studies and are very important for gaining an understanding of the subject as
a whole. Many Catholic scholars gather, as James T. Fisher and Margaret M. McGuinness
compile the volume. A core addiction to any collection dedicated to Catholicism and higher
learning, "The Catholic Studies Reader" should not be overlooked.

You're the only thing holding yourself back. "The Journey Into Reflection" is a spiritual and
motivational book from Ronnie McMullen as he advises readers to look deep inside themselves
to pick up the pieces of their life by evaluating their past and pushing themselves to their own
future, realizing their own truths. Stating that science and spirituality are merging, "The Journey
Into Reflection" blends the power of self with metaphysical spirituality that many readers will
learn to consider and embrace.

The Christian Studies Shelf

Adoption is a taxing process on the soul of all those involved, but can lead to great results.
"Praying Through Your Adoption: A Complete Guide to Creating and Nurturing Today's Forever
Family" discusses the endeavor of the 'paper pregnancy' of adoption, and the role of faith in the
adoption process. From discussing if adoption is the right choice for your family, prayer for the
process and your new ward, and using faith to introduce your child into your life. "Praying
Through Your Adoption" is a solid and thoughtful read for any Christian family pursuing
adoption.

With all options exhausted, it may be in God's hands alone. "Praying Through a Child's Illness:
28 Days of Prayer" is a guide from Wessel Bentley aimed at parents who are facing the
unthinkable and have no ways to help. Prayer may help the parent and the child keep their heads
and keep their faith through these difficult times, as Bentley presents a 28 day plan. "Praying
Through a Child's Illness: 28 Days of Prayer" is a powerful read for Christian parents trying to
grasp how to deal with these unfortunate incidents of life.

The basis of the Gospel of John is simple. Love for Christ, and love for others. "Believers Church
Bible Commentary: 1, 2, 3 John" is the breakdown of the gospel from J. E. McDermond as he
explains the basics of Christ's message to John, and he argues that these two principles are very
important as time rolls on. For those who want to fully understand the message behind the
Gospel of John, "Believers Church Bible Commentary" is an absolute must, a core addition to
any Christian and Bible study collection.

The grace of God is easily lost when the world seems to be nothing but cruelty. "Life is Hard but
God is Good: An Inquiry into Suffering" is a guide to finding and understanding God when one
seems so lost and unable to cope with the high cruelty of our lives. Adele J. Gonzalez, a woman
of spirituality who has worked with others finding their path, writes with devotion and
inspiration. "Life is Hard But God is Good" is filled with excellent wisdom and is very much
recommended reading for Christian readers who have experienced doubt through suffering, either
their own or others.

The place of worship is a dedication to God above all else. "Renovation of the Church: What
Happens When a Seeker Church Discovers Spiritual Formation" is the story of Kent Carlson and
Mike Lueken as they tell the story of their church in Oak Hills, California. They tell of how God
spoke to them and advised them, making them give up their own ambition in order to face a more
genuine faith. "Renovation of the Church" is a modern story of God's influence and following His
word, despite the consequences and opinions of others, highly recommended.

Faith has long since ceased being the uniter of communities. "Church Diversity: Sunday, the
Most Segregated Day of the Week" discusses the splintering of church in our communities, being
split on the factors of race, class, and other beliefs that send many Christians into different
churches every Sunday to worship the same God. Stating that this segregation has telling signs on
society and other elements, Scott Williams speaks clearly on the importance of diversity in
church, making "Church Diversity" an important read for anyone who realizes that Churches
shouldn't be color coded.

You are the focus of your own life, and it's up to you to live it as you want it. "The Me Project:
21 Days to Living the Life You've Always Wanted" is a motivational guide from Kathi Lipp as
she advises readers to find God, use him and themselves to find what they really want and how to
use three weeks of your life to push oneself onto that path they feel is right. From improving
attitudes to finding associates that will help you stay the course, "The Me Project" is a thoughtful
and driven read that shouldn't be overlooked for Christian women who have grown dissatisfied
with their path.

The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Inheriting a friend's piece in a business deal also may come with that friend's enemies. "The
Manhattan Transfer" tells the story of Richard Weiss, a cop facing retirement. With the death of a
close friend John, he takes his place in a business deal with one Janice Eastman. But the soon to
be former cop finds that such a business deal comes with its own concern, as the criminal
underworld has a say in what goes down. A story of the business world gone sour and one last
hurrah against crime, "The Manhattan Transfer" is a poignant thriller and very much worth
considering.

To target election day is to target democracy itself. "The Valley of Shadows" tells of a massive
sprawling terrorist plot that Derek Stillwater must crack down and solve. Millions of lives are on
the line as information reveals five attacks throughout the country on Election day, and with a
political assassination going as high as presidential candidates. "The Valley of Shadows" is a
riveting thriller that should very much hard to put down, highly recommended.

When you can't go to the police for justice, it all relies on your own wits. "Dorie LaValle: A
Minnesota Story of Moonshine and Murder" tells the story of the titular character, who in her
despair of a failing farm and a loveless marriage, she embraces illegal moonshine for something
to do and to make ends meet for her family. When her partner in crime Victor is shot, Dorie finds
that she is at odds with her neighbors, with the law, and with the mafia. "Dorie LaValle" is a fun,
fast paced adventure and mystery set in the prohibition era Midwest.

Ritual Jewish murder sounds ridiculous, but rumors of such are all it took to ignite a wave of
anti-Semitism. "Stones Don't Bear Witness" is a historical mystery from Boris Sandler, a Russian
author drawing on events of the waning days of Czarist Russia and the plight of Jews of the time.
Blamed for the murder of a Christian boy, the town's Jews come under fire. In a blend of fiction
and historical research, and expertly translated by Barnett Zumoff, "Stones Don't Bear Witness"
is truly a fascinating read that should prove quite difficult to put down.

The Health/Medicine Shelf

The road to health is hard enough without making the person on it feel worthless. "The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Ending Overeating: Using Compassion-Focused Therapy to Overcome Bingeing & Disordered Eating" is an advisory guide to those who want to overcome their bad habits. Too often the stress of life and everything else makes it easy to lose focus and fall off a diet. Ken Goss encourages compassion for yourself while trying to fix your bad eating habits to help deal with life's challenges to your journey to health, and much more. "The Compassionate-Mind Guide to Ending Overeating" is a fine read, a strong choice for those who want to fight off overeating for better health and a better life.

A healthy body begets a healthy mind begets a healthy body. "Yoga for a Beautiful Face: Easy
Exercises to Help You Look Young Again" is a guide to those who want to fully embrace Yoga
as an avenue of better health. Facial beauty is something not approached when speaking of
exercise, but the principles of Yoga have applications to tone one's face, and how diet can lead to
a healthier face that will help the practitioner look younger than they truly are. "Yoga for a
Beautiful Face" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone who is looking towards Yoga for
better health.

With a bit of intuition and inventiveness, you can do well finding cures of all your own. "The
People's Pharmacy Home Remedies" is a collection filled with simple and practical folk advice
as Joe & Terry Graedon focus on what can be done with common elements that one would find
in their home. From minor problems like acne and headaches, to dieting, the authors discuss the
natural hidden powers of many common items in one's home and they explain how to better
embrace them and use them effectively. Stating that these ideas can lead to better health overall
with extra advice from many experts, "The People's Pharmacy of Home Remedies" is worth
considering for anyone who wants better health out of what's around them.

Who says an education in the classics doesn't have a use? "How Plato and Pythagoras Can Save
Your Life: The Ancient Greek Prescription for Health & Happiness" is a unique health guide that
delves into the deep history of the Greek philosophers and how they had a formula for health that
can still ring quite true in the modern day. Blending a bit of philosophy, health, and his own story
of coming back from the brink of death and addiction, "How Plato and Pythagoras Can Save
Your Life" is full of conventional and not-so conventional wisdom to finding the path to health
that's been there for us to take for over two thousand years.

The Self-Help Shelf

The only limit to one's potential is the self. "Inside-Out Healing: Transforming Your Life
Through the Power of Presence" is a motivational book from Richard Moss as he brings thoughts
on how to better connect with those around one, how inspiring others can heal the self, improve
empathy, and find fulfillment in one's life through being grateful for what one has. "Inside-Out
Healing" is a spiritual and powerful book for finding that light in yourself and in those around
you.

If you dawdle over a poor past, you'll never get anything done. "No More Regrets!: 30 Ways to
Greater Happiness and Meaning in Your Life" is an inspirational guide from Marc Muchinik who
encourages readers to break out of their life's grind and drive themselves to happiness and pursue
what we really want out of our lives. With over thirty tips, Muchnick asks readers to pick a few
and get going to a better life. "No More Regrets!" is a solid read for those who don't want to be
drudged in misery any longer.

The Relationship Shelf

Flirting has always been an art, not an exact science. "Total Flirt: Tips, Tricks, & Techniques
Every Girl Needs to Get the Guy" is a guide for women to take their hunt for a man into their
own hands, on how to pick up on cues from their desire and how to drop some cues themselves.
Stating that body language is a major part but actual language goes far on top of it, "Total Flirt" is
a must for any woman who wants to take control of their hunt for love.

The Egyptology Shelf

Could the roots of civilization lie in Black Africans, instead of those originating north of the
Sahara? "Black Genesis: The Prehistoric Origins of Ancient Egypt" is the argument of an origin
of Ancient Egypt that embraces Africans as the founders of civilization, allowing the ancient
Egypt we know today to descend from such a culture. Robert Bauval & Thomas Brophy are an
Egyptologist and an astronomer respectively, and offer their own evidence for their argument to
put Black Africa back in charge of the origins of civilization.

The Science Shelf

There are things so foreign to our normal lives that it's hard to believe that it's all the same planet.
"Finding Mars" is a blend of travel, science, and memoir as Ned Rozell speaks of his tales with a
permafrost researcher in Japanese scientist Kenji Yoshikawa. Sharing a common drive for
explorations and knowledge, the tale recounts their journeys through the harshest places in all of
Alaska. "Finding Mars" is very much recommended for anyone with an interest in Alaska's arctic
wilderness, and for true adventure and science collections.

The ocean is full of mysteries, being full of questions to those who state into the deeps with many
questions. "Can Squid Fly?: Answers to a Host of Fascinating Questions About the Sea and Sea
Life" is a collection of over seventy questions and comprehensive answers from Tony Rice.
Explaining the specifics of sea life, dispelling misconceptions, explaining mythology, Rice
provides much thought, pictures, and plenty of maps for a highly educational experience for
those curious about the oceans. "Can Squid Fly?" is aimed at anyone with an assortment of
questions about the deeps that surround us all.

Who knew that a bunch of rocks could be such a captivating sight? "Geology Underfoot in
Yellowstone Country" discusses the many geologically captivating sites throughout Yellowstone
National Park discussing there geological history, points of interest, and much more. In glossy
full color and plenty of maps, "Geology Underfoot in Yellowstone Country" is a must for any
amateur geologist who may find themselves in the Yellowstone region.

The Environmental Studies Shelf

The climate will become a more important issue as time rolls on. "America's Climate Choices"
discusses the concerns of global climate change and the United States congress, looking at the
greater picture of what obstacles stand in front of the nation and its success, as the National
Academies provide their own scholarly solutions as they discuss the topic completely and
comprehensively. "America's Climate Choices" is an excellent breakdown of the debate, highly
recommended.

The Poetry Shelf

Award-winning author and former poetry editor of "Minnesota Monthly" Richard Broderick
presents Rain Dance, a poetry chapbook of brief musings in an assortment of different verse
styles. The contemplative thoughts herein range from a Russian soldier recalling what it was like
to die at sea, to the daily life of African students at the community college, to how an ordinary
house dog sees the world. Rain Dance presents new ways of looking at the world through many
others' eyes, and is highly recommended. "In Exile": What secrets are they sharing, / the sparrows
in the bare tree? / All morning they fatten themselves / on the thin syrup of winter light. // Over
the hum of the space heater / I listen to the chatter, smiling distractedly. / I am like a refugee,
newly arrived / in a land whose melodious tongue / I might one day understand / though never
hope to master.

The second collection by award-winning poet Michael Dickman, Flies is an anthology of
free-verse poetry invoking the perceptions of childhood, as well as the grief of personal loss. The
poems tell about being haunted by the suicide of an older brother, as well as the reverberating
effects of psychic, spiritual, and physical violence, and the long path to renewing oneself and
finding both internal and external peace. "Translations": My mother was led into the world / by
her teeth // Pulled / like a bull / into the / heather // She only ever wanted to be a mother her
whole life and nothing else / not even a human being! // One body turned into / another body //
Pulled by the golden voices of children // A bull / out of hell // Called out / her teeth out in front
of her / her children / pulling.

Life's questions are quite numerous, and their answers are even more numerous. "A Hundred
Doors" is the take of Michael Longley on the endlessly changing nature of many of life's stages
from war to fatherhood using a unique assortment of symbolism for a very special picture of it
all. "A Hundred Doors" is an excellent assortment of poetry, very much recommended reading.
"Pamela": In your window winter-flowering jasmine's/Reflections frame the music you
practiced/Before you died./Intermezzi. December's/Yellow flowers./Sorrow's cradlesong.

As the world explodes in change, the drive of one woman would inspire generations to come.
"Kat Among the Tigers" is a collection of poetry from Kath Maclean as she creates a collection
of poetry based on her own inspirations with the life of Katherine Mansfield, discussing
literature, life, and everything else. "Kat Among the Tigers" is a fine delve into history, poetry,
and much more. "Spring, Maniac, Maniac": In the morning gulls fly towards the infinite./We
linger in the door, where my heart lies/these secret places, these strange thoughts.//How the
jonquil buds and the figs dry their bellies./A bowl of oranges quietly hold their
breath.//Exhausted with tulip-talk, the afternoon unravels/threads of conservation, dulls the
senses, witless/the jonquils weak and pale stretch towards the light.

A nail is an implement that is grisly and to the point. "Nails" is a collection of poetry from Larry
Schug as he presents his variety of poetry that focuses on nails, and his poetry speaks on far more
than carpentry. With a certain flare and wisdom and plenty of knowledge, "Nails" is an excellent
collection that should very much be considered, highly recommended. "Nail Poem #81": Though
the nail/has a point,/it can't stand on its own/and it gets no help/from its head.

Water is something we all need, but all too eager to flee from us. "The Memory of Water" is a
collection of poetry from Jack Myers, whose work and wisdom focuses on the disappointments
in our searches in life as we try to quickly place it all together, holding it together for as long as
we can. "The Memory of Water" is an excellent collection from a rising poet, a top pick for
general poetry collections. "Treasure Hunt": I felt like a stream rushing/over something shiny./I
couldn't tell what it was/I was constantly rushing/over bu tit was probably precious/because of
that. Maybe it was/just a trick of light that kept me/diving for it my whole life./I never told a soul
about it./It seems a lifetime ago. I was shining./I can still make myself feel it./I am the buried
map.

We are at constant odds with our own nature. "Wild Horses, Wild Dreams" is a collection of
thirty years of poetry from Lindy Hough, compiling her works from 1971 to 2010, chronicling
her maturity as a woman, a mother, and the world around her, life, and everything else. "Wild
Horses, Wild Dreams is an excellent compilation of poetry, highly recommended. "A Sunday
Song": Out of the daily/Out of the sacred day/Out of the rain blessing the day's fall/Out of the
lilacs/bending to brush your lips with sweet water-drops,/Out of the highway where we came to
here,/Out of the book we have learned the law/Out of our time/we learned to use/what was at
hand & in us/Out of our cosmology we perceived/the dance between us and its rhythms/Out of
your mind I seem spun/wake surprised at my separate existence.

The impact of some men on an art form cannot be understated. "Visiting Dr. Williams: Poems
Inspired by the Life and Work of William Carlos Williams" is an anthology of poetry from
various authors who write in dedication to this giant of influence on modern poetry, William
Carlos Williams. The poems draw from his work, and show the degree of his influence on many
modern poets work, compiled by professors of English and literature in Sheila Coghill & Thom
Tammaro. "Visiting Dr. Williams" is a thoughtful compilation of poetry and dedication to a
great man, highly recommended.

Our lives are a conglomeration of anything and everything around us. "Pinko" is a volume of
poetry from Jen Benka who uses her gift for language to reflect on the many conflicts that make up
our lives, making unique observations and leaving readers with a bit of knowledge on top of it
all. "Pinko" is a fine addition to any general poetry collection, highly recommended. "Lima":
broke down desk yes pulpit/these papers geometric sermon/defend voice flesh hand/forensic
paragraph/cognitive catch/instinct said/swell to the left.

The Travel Shelf

Nature and history have merged into one delightful picture of scenery. "Nevada Trails: Southern
Region" is a guide to the many backroads and four-wheel drive trails scattered throughout the
state as the authors give readers a sampling of the many locations one might want to take through
the state. Trails are organized by difficulty, and offers guides to many ghost towns and
abandoned mines throughout the area. "Nevada Trails" is a must for any who want to see the
unique beauty of Nevada has outside of the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas.

Norway is a sight to behold, and for a unique Nordic experience, a Bed & Breakfast may be the
best route to avoid the truly tourist-driven hotel style. "The Norway Bed & Breakfast Book" is a
guide to the many Bed & Breakfast lodging throughout the country written by an enthusiastic
worldwide traveler and proud Norwegian in Anne Marit Bjorgen. Multi-lingual in English,
Norwegian, and German, as well as illustrations of some of the locations, on top of history and
countless other information. For those seeking a bed and breakfast experience in their visit to
Norway, "The Norway Bed & Breakfast Book" is an excellent pick and very much
recommended.

The Sports Shelf

They aren't the sluggers who become stars, but the fielders are invaluable in a successful baseball
team. "The Fielding Bible: Break-through Analysis of Major League Baseball Defense -- by
Team and Player" is a breakdown of the defenses of many major league teams discusses and
gives credit to these titans of baseball defense, as John Dewan discusses how we can measure
success of these players by how many runs they saved, and how the fielders of the MLB stack up
to one another and throughout history. "The Fielding Bible" is a must for any hardcore baseball
fan who realizes it's the complete game that makes the team.

The Greatest Game Ever Pitched: Juan Marichal, Warren Spahn, and the Pitching Duel of the
Century is a dual sports biography of Juan Marichal and Warren Spahn, culminating in their
unforgettable July, 1963 pitching duel that lasted 16 innings. A handful of black-and-white
photographs enhance this study of two extraordinary sports players, and the lives they led up to
and beyond their titanic conflict. Accessible to readers of all backgrounds, The Greatest Game
Ever Pitched is an especial treasury for baseball fans.

The Social Issues Shelf

Corruption runs deep, and it takes a certain boldness to stand up to it all. "The Killing Game" is a
collection of writings from Gary Webb, known for writing Dark Alliance, an investigative report
that criticized the American government and its war on its own citizenry. In this set of writings,
he takes on the corruption of law enforcement, the medical profession, the grab for greed,
militarism, and much more. "The Killing Game" is a strongly recommended read for anyone who
wants to gain an understanding of the dark side of the ruling class, highly recommended for
community college social issues collections.

A death with dignity can at times be something very difficult to acquire. "Grace Before Dying" is
a work of black and white photography as Lori Waselchuk focuses on the infamous prison
Angola and how the inmates and prison staff have launched ways to give these men a death that
isn't hollow and without meaning. A moving compilation of photography that catches much soul,
an essay from Lawrence N. Powell drives the soul of the matter, and makes for a very educated
read. "Grace Before Dying" is certainly a thoughtful read, a must for any socially active
photography collection, highly recommended.

The Cookbook Shelf

The rules of Kosher are far less restrictive than one would think. "Kosher Elegance: The Art of
Cooking with Style" is a cookbook from Efrat Libfoind she brings the absolute best, things that
are truly unique to the table in Kosher cooking, presenting the dishes that gained her world wide
acclaim in not only presentation but great taste as well. She crafts her meals from simpler
ingredients than one would think, and has recipes for any occasion. Items include Mini-Deli
Sandwiches with Alioli Sauce, Chicken Nuggets with Potato and Sweet Potato Gratin, and
unique desserts such as Chocolate drink with Orange Granita. With full color photos of every
dish, "Kosher Elegance" is an absolute must for those who want something truly magnificent for
their next gathering.

We're a long way past cooks having three hours to create something with pain-staking loving
care. "Alice's Cookbook" is a cookbook for those who live modern lives which are busy and
constantly tempted by fast food. With a wide assortment of recipes, Alice focuses on the hands
on time, and the practicality, with a straight forward ingredient list and occasional suggestion for
replacements. Organized by occasion such as breakfasts, brunches, dinners, parties, and much
more, along with a touch of full color photos of select dishes, "Alice's Cookbook" is a strong pick
for the modern cook who wants good food but doesn't want to spend three days on fancily
decorated cupcakes.

There's more to cooking in Italy than lots of tomato sauce. "The Puglian Cookbook: Bringing the
Flavors of Puglia Home" is a guide to this unique brand of Italian cooking, showing this unique
flavor unlike one would find elsewhere in Italy. Viktorija Todorovska presents readers with a
cookbook with plenty of full color photos, with dishes that use a wide variety of ingredients, such
as - Pizza with greens, Potato Frittata, Stracatto, Coffee pudding, and much more. For those who
want a taste of excellent, yet different Italian cooking, "The Puglian Cookbook" is not to be
missed.

There's more to paradise than sunshine, beaches, and the shade of the trees. "Paradise Kitchen:
Caribbean Cooking with Chef Daniel Orr" guides readers through the many culinary samples that
one can taste if they embrace the Caribbean style which blends the many cultures that have
claimed the isles as their own. From coconut martinis, to spicy Caribbean stews, jerked ribs, and
so much more, there's something paradise for anyone's tongue, and Daniel Orr uses full color
photography and easy to follow ingredients so one can embrace these dishes anywhere. "Paradise
Kitchen" is a solidly recommended read for those who want the spice of paradise without going
to paradise.

The Aviation Shelf

Ever since man got off the ground, the push for speed has been quite the drive of technology.
"World's Fastest Four-Engine Piston-Powered Aircraft: Story of the Republic XR-12 Rainbow"
looks at the history of this propeller-based aircraft that was pushing nearly 500 mph before jets
took the show in another direction entirely. A study of engineering and old fashioned aircraft,
"World's Fastest Four-Engine Piston-Powered Aircraft" is a fine pick for those with a certain
dedication and memoir for the older style of aircraft.

The Agriculture Shelf

Raising farm animals doesn't require twenty acres. "The Backyard Homestead Guide to Raising
Farm Animals" is a guide for those who want to raise livestock in their own property, making the
most out of a limited space. With advice on raising everything from chickens to cows to rabbits,
to even bees, the book will guide readers to getting the most out of their property and getting the
absolute best out of their animals. "The Backyard Homestead Guide to Raising Farm Animals" is
a must for anyone who wants to take the next step towards self-sufficiency.

The Gardening Shelf

Beautiful yards and gardens don't need to be wasteful endeavors. "Water-Efficient Landscaping:
In the Inter-mountain West: A Professional and Do-It-Yourself Guide" is a guide for working
with less water for both people who tend to their own lawns and gardens, and for people who
make a business out of it. The inter-mountain region in the Western United States has a very
unique climate that can be much more difficult to work with than the typically temperate regions
elsewhere. Answering many questions landscapes may have completely and comprehensively,
"Water-Efficient Landscaping" is a very useful and very highly recommended resource that
shouldn't overlooked.

The Railroading Shelf

The harsh land of Canada was a bit slower than its southern neighbor in adapting the power of
rail, but it has been seen as an invaluable resource since. "Rails Across Canada" chronicles the
history of Canada's railroads with hundreds of full color photographs throughout. Rails over
Canada proved difficult at first, given the country's very harsh winters and mountainous terrain
gave little window for easy construction. Chronicling a major industrial achievement, "Rails
Across Canada" proves an excellent coffee table book and an excellent pick for anyone with a
love of locomotives.

The American History Shelf

Higher learning is a centuries old institution. "St. John's College Cambridge: A History" seeks to
tell the long and storied history of St. John's College, Cambridge, a constituent college of the
famed Cambridge University. Established in 1511, its history is one that has hosted Prime
Ministers, religious heads, major figures of art and entertainment, and much more. With the
relatively recent compilation of the college's archives, Peter Linehan and his associates follows
the college's history century by century, from its founding up into the modern era, with special
attention to its roles in major historical events such as world war. A fascinating history of higher
learning and its changes as history marches on, "St. John's College Cambridge" is a core addition
to any history collection with a focus on educational institutions, highly recommended.

The Computer Shelf

The internet has become quite the visual medium in recent years. "The Book of CSS3: A
Developer's Guide to the Future of Web Design" is a guide to using CSS3 in one's own web
design, explaining the full potential of the CSS3 language. CSS3 can lead to highly complex
presentations with text that is far beyond plain text, awe-inspiring backgrounds, animations,
3D-imagery, and making it so one's website works effectively on portable devices. "The Book of
CSS3" is a must for any web designer who wants the best out of their site, but isn't as skilled as
they wish with modern web design.

The Women's Studies Shelf

Through the law, she made her mark on the world by daring to stand against the norm. "In
Defense of Women: Memoirs of an Unrepentant Advocate" is a memoir of Nancy Gertner who
since the 1970s has been an advocate for women's rights and standing up for many women in
criminal cases. She tells her story of breaking into a very male dominated profession and making
a lot of noise in the process, and her constant struggle in many landmark cases. A story of civil
rights and a story of law, "In Defense of Women" is a must for any women's rights, memoir, or
law studies collection.

The Political Science Shelf

The democratic process has become a billion dollar industry. "Financing the 2008 Election"
discusses the past Presidential election in which a million was a drop in the bucket in
fund-raising. David B. Magleby & Anthony Carrado discuss this massive flow of cash tossed
about and what it means for American politics. Analyzing the special interest groups that lead to
the inflation of funds tossed about, they paint an intriguing picture of the future of campaign
finance and our future. "Financing the 2008 Election" is a definite pick for anyone curious about
the future of campaign finance in America.

Tragedy is more than a saddening event, it is a powerful tool. "The Politics of Tragedy and
Democratic Citizenship" is a scholarly scrutiny of tragedy in Democracy, and how the nature of
tragedy and tragic events have been used the world over by politicians, political thinkers, as well
as artists to push their thoughts and ideas through. Robert C. Pirro, an American professor of
Political Science focuses on the struggles of unified Germany, Czechoslovakia, and South Africa
to paint a picture on how tragedy can shape a country through politics and else-wise. "The
Politics of Tragedy and Democratic Citizenship" would do well in any political science or
philosophy collection, enthusiastically recommended.

The values of our founders have been lost, but not in the way many commentators believe we
have lost them. "Real Common Sense: Using Our Founding Values to Reclaim Our Nation and
Stop the Radical Right from Hijacking America" is a political book from Brian Kahn about the
downward spiral that America has been taking, its causes, and where we are going. Kahn speaks
on his view of what the founding fathers intended, and offers his opinions on what is dragging
America down. "Real Common Sense" is worth considering for those seeking further political
discussion that attacks America's many ailments.

The Education Shelf

Technology and education are terrific partners, if teachers take control to establish them as such.
"Creating a Digital-Rich Classroom: Teaching & Learning in a Web 2.0 World" discusses how
technology can be used to its fullest as a learning tool as author Meg Ormiston suggests ways to
use Web 2.0 to make it so the internet is the class room, helping them find information, and find
new ways to teach old curriculum. For any tech savvy teacher who rightfully believes the internet
is the future, "Creating a Digital-Rich Classroom" is the road map you need to make the
web-infused classroom a reality.

Research is a big portion of making a work well informed and acclaimed. "Mapping Your
Thesis: The Comprehensive Manual of Theory and Techniques for Masters and Doctoral
Research" is a guide for researching for a thesis, providing the rules and tricks for working with
research and studying. A thesis has much to do with the related term theory, and all theories must
be backed with solid and thorough research. Chapters discuss the basics of education, reason, and
thought through the works of many thinkers and philosophers throughout history, creating a
concept, creating and editing the work, and the high importance of self-review of your work.
"Mapping Your Thesis" is a must for anyone who is being tasked with the challenge of crafting a
thesis, no matter the purpose.

The Humor Shelf

Housework is for chumps. "The Decadent Housewife: Fun and Flirty Secrets to Keep Him Wrapped Around Your Little Finger" is a humorous tongue-in-cheek guide from Rosemary Counter as she guides readers through being the perfect housewife. At least what he THINKS is the perfect housewife. With tips on slacking off, dealing with the few things you absolutely need to, coming off as superior when obviously you are and much more, "The Decadent Housewife" is a top pick for anyone who wants to be a trophy wife with an expertise in laziness and thinks there's nothing wrong with that.

The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Creativity lies in all of us, it's drawing it out that proves to be difficult. "Empowerment Training:
Training for Creativity, Persistence, Industriousness, Resilience, & Behavioral Well-Being"
delves into the specifics of empowering animal trainers to empower their animals using research
of recent years. With extra advice on dealing with companion animals who have lost the drive to
be trained and helping the animal find their own happiness in their lot, "Empowerment Training"
is a powerful read for animal trainers who struggle with getting the most out of their
animals.

The Jewelry Shelf

The ancients embraced silver just as much as gold for their decorative needs. "Desert Silver:
Nomadic and Traditional Silver Jewelry from the Middle East and North Africa" investigates the
styles used throughout the southern half of the Mediterranean sea through some of Humanity's
oldest civilizations. This jewelry proves to have practical value and comfort for the peoples of
the desert life that managed to tell their status without being too clunky. "Desert Silver" is a must
for anyone with a taste for the ancient classical styles of history.

The Wine Shelf

It takes a bit of creativity, but the results can be something special. "DIY Cocktails: A Simple
Guide to Creating Your Own Signature Drinks" is a guide to getting crazy and creative with
drinks, as Marcia Simmons & Jonas Halpren walk readers through how to best mix flavors and
avoid the no nos of what does and doesn't mix. With tips on syrups, when to use premade, when
to make your own, and much more, "DIY Cocktails" is a must pick for anyone who wants a new
flavor experience with every cocktail.

The Psychology Shelf

The ideas of Carl Jung have left many disciples of his ideas trying to understand our insane world
with his ideas, and it still proves quite difficult. "Trampled to Death by Geese: More Eros, and a
Lot More Nonsense" is a study of many writings and events as Daryl Sharp looks at the madness
that surrounds him with humor and wisdom and a bit of Jungian psychology in hopes to trying to
decipher it all. It's an upward struggle, but author Daryl Sharp shares this academic endeavor in a
fun to read and educational way. "Trampled to Death by Geese" is a must for anyone curious in
Jungian psychology and its version of modern insanity.

The role of the psychiatrist isn't what many people think it is. "Shrink Rap" is a discussion of
what psychiatrists do as three psychiatrists come together to discuss the trade, aimed at the
curious reader as well as the rookie psychiatrist. From dealing with the mundane tasks of the job
like scheduling and money to making the hard decisions that can change lives, "Shrink Rap" is an
intriguing read and trade guide that's of intriguing reading to anyone, regardless of their
psychotherapeutic aspirations.

The Biography Shelf

Elly Peterson: "Mother" of the Moderates is a solid biography of one of the highest ranking
women in the Republican Party. Politically involved from 1952 to 1982, Elly Peterson was a
moderate Republican, who became increasingly disillusioned by the party's rightward swing in
the 1970's. She campaigned for the Equal Rights Amendment and reproductive rights, and raised
her voice against the heavily conservative Phyllis Schlafly. Her extraordinary political career, as
well as the changes in the party itself, are succinctly chronicles and presented in this captivating
account. Highly recommended, especially for public and college library biography shelves.

The most successful businessmen don't flourish by climbing to the top of existing markets, they
create a market all their own. "L.L. Bean: The Man and His Company" is a biography of the man
who created the mail order business and earned his own piece of immortality in the process.
From the development of a boot, his business quickly grew into something greater, forming a
model with influence that can still be felt within juggernauts such as Amazon.com. "L.L. Bean:
The Man and His Company" is a fascinating look at one of the man who took business in a great
step forward, highly recommended.

The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume XXVII is an anthology of the best of the
best original science fiction short stories and illustrations from the annual Writers of the Future
and the Illustrators of the Future international programs. Essays on writing and illustration by L.
Ron Hubbard, Mike Resnick, and Robert Castillo round out this exceptional anthology, featuring
stories selected as the cream of the crop by a broad panel of fellow established science fiction
authors - Kevin J. Anderson, Orson Scott Card, Larry Niven, and Robert Silverberg are just a few
of the many distinguished judges. All stories have never before been published, in this
"must-have" for cutting-edge science fiction fans!

As long as there is someone willing to resist, all hope is not lost. "The Sword of Darrow" is a
fantasy focusing on the kingdom of Sonnencrest, toppled by marauding goblins. The last hope for
civilization lies in Princess Babette, trying to gain an understanding of her magical talents. Along
with the sickly Darrow and Scodo, the only one among them who seems to be able to actually
fight, "The Sword of Darrow" is a story of the drive that can push even the weakest of of us to
great things.

The Audiobook Shelf

Folly Beach: A Lowcountry Tale an unabridged audiobook novel capturing wistful memories of
Carolina lowcountry. Cate Cooper grew up in Folly Beach; drastic events in her life have left her
homeless, broke, and adrift, winding up in a tiny coastal cottage. Yet Folly Beach has been a
place of love and happiness for others; it just might be the place where Cate can transform herself
into the woman she's always wanted to become. An emotionally powerful story of personal
rediscovery, Folly Beach is highly recommended. 10 CDs, 12 hours.

Brought to life by the theatrically trained Georgina Sutton, The Virgin and the Gypsy is a
captivating, unabridged audiobook performance of D.H. Lawrence's story about a young girl
raised by a stifling family, who re-examines how she looks at the world upon meeting a gypsy.
As she is poised on the border of conforming to expectations and rebelling against them, a flash
flood brings immediate danger to her home and her life, forever changing her world. A powerful
novel of sexuality and identity, The Virgin and the Gypsy satirizes antiquated societal views and
provides a sweeping saga of rethinking the self and one's lifelong plans. Highly recommended. 3
CDs, 3 hours 37 min.

A Summer in Sonoma is the unabridged audiobook adaption of award-winning author Rober
Carr's romance novel following four women who have been friends since the seventh grade.
Cassie, despairing that she will ever find Mr. Right, explores the back roads of Sonoma with a
long-haired biker who helped her break away from Mr. Wrong; Julie, now married and raising
children, fights to stay one step ahead of her ever-increasing debt; Marty's marriage has cooled,
prompting her to consider an affair with an old love; and Beth, a doctor whose services are
always in demand, hides her symptoms from the others. As the four of them approach the turning
point that is age 30, they discover how drastically life can suddenly change, and why have friends
for mutual support is crucially important. A heartwarming story of trying times, highly
recommended. 10 CDs, 11.5 hours. Also a choice pick for audiobook lovers is Recorded Books'
unabridged adaptation of "The Thieves of Manhattan" by Adam Langer (9781449828653,
$77.75, 7 CDs, 8.25 hours).

The Innovation Secrets of Steve Jobs is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of the true-life
story of the core principles of visionary Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. Singer and musician Sean
Mangan smoothly narrates this solid listing of core principles for encouraging innovation in one's
business, and using brainpower to overcome competitors, develop products that change people's
ways of thinking, promote customer loyalty, and support one's business during the leanest and
meanest of economic times. The Innovation Secrets of Steve Jobs is a "must-have" packed with
invaluable advice for business and corporate leaders of all walks of life! 7 CDs, 8 hours 28
min.

The Wilders country band has released a self-titled album showcasing their talent, passion, and
heart. Celebrating fifteen years of performing as a band, The Wilders album is an experience that
truly makes the listener feel alive, and is an absolute treasure for anyone who has every loved any
variant of country, from bluegrass to folk to modern Americana. The tracks are "Ordinary
People" (4:01), "Mid November" (5:01), "Riding on Your High Horse" (2:04), "She Says (I Say)"
(2:49), "Get Up Kid" (5:45), "Stay With Me" (3:38), "Pat's 25" (4:41), "Riverboat" (3:47), "L.A."
(2:24), "Things They Say About Home" (3:20), "No. 7" (2:00), "This Old Town" (4:39), and
"Lay Down our Guns" (4:28).

Beethoven Shreds is a high-octane wild ride of a musical performance by The Great Kat, who
may well be the fastest guitarist in the world (unless someone can step forth and challenge her
title)! The Great Kat performs furious, magnificent shreds of Beethoven's classics on both the
violin and the electric guitar (often with orchestra & band) in this exciting masterpiece,
encouraging all generations of music lovers to experience Beethoven in a whole new way. Highly
recommended! The tracks are "The Flight of the Bumble-Bee" (0:42), "Beethoven's 5th
Symphony" (1:14), "Torture Techniques" (1:06), "Bach's Brandenburg Concerto #3" (1:41),
"IslamoFascists" (0:50), "Bach's The Art Of The Fugue" (0:32), and "Paganini's Caprice #24"
(1:30).

The DVD Shelf

Former professional baseball player Bobby Woods presents Down Broadway: Pitching and
Catching Techniques for the Modern Player, an instructional DVD teaching viewers solid
baseball pitching and catching techniques, as well as how to instruct young players ages 8-18 to
improve their gameplay. From pivoting and balance to fastballs, curve balls, snap throws,
fielding bunts, and much more, Down Broadway is an absolutely invaluable resource for parents
and coaches everywhere. Highly recommended. 50 min.

"Yoga Tune Up" fitness therapy creator Jill Miller presents and hosts Quickfix RX: Kneehab, a
fitness DVD especially for individuals who need to take extra care of their knees. Kneehab's four
specialized routines, designed for those with different knee health levels, are: PreHab, a
self-massage maintenance program designed to promote good knee health; KneeHab 1, a
program especially to help those recovering from knee injury; KneeHab 2, a program that
emphasizes knee mobility, stability, and agility as well as connection to the core; and KneeHow,
a program for healthy knees emphasizing strength training exercises for peak athletic
performance. A bonus segment about knee anatomy and the importance of proper hip and ankle
alignment rounds out this user-friendly, absolutely indispensable fitness program for anyone who
needs to pay special attention to their knees. 65 min.

Exhale: Core Fusion Cardio - Pure Intensity is the first cardio workout DVD from Exhale's
popular fitness line. Consisting of five 10-minute workouts (plus a bonus stretching segment)
designed to promote weight loss as well as sculpt abs, tone legs, and strengthen arms and glutes,
Exhale: Core Fusion Cardio requires no expensive exercise equipment, only light hand weights.
Husband and wife team Fred DeVito and Elisabeth Halfpapp, who have more than 5 years of
combined experience instructing Pilates, Lotte Berk Method, yoga, and dance, distill their
expertise into this easy-to-follow exercise video that can easily be tailored to suit the needs of
fitness buffs of all skill and experience levels. Highly recommended. 60 min., widescreen.

Part of the fitness series combining the physical benefits of yoga, Pilates, ballet and dance, The
Booty Barre Plus Abs & Arms is a solid workout DVD consisting of a dance fusion warm-up, an
arm section involving 3-5 pound dumbbells along with Pilates and ballet-inspired arm work, a
"barre" section focusing on standing abdominal work with high-energy fitness intervals, and a
final core section of exercises grounded in Pilates and Yoga with the option to include a
dumbbell. Aside from the dumbbells, the only equipment needed are a sturdy chair and an
optional exercise ball. An invigorating workout that lives up to its title, The Booty Barre Plus
Abs & Arms is enthusiastically recommended not only for fitness buffs, but also for viewers of
all fitness levels seeking to strengthen and tone their muscles. 1 hour 20 min.

The LGBT Studies Shelf

A Queer History of the United States
Michael Bronski
Beacon Press
25 Beacon Street
Boston, MA 02108-2892
9780807044391 $27.95 www.beacon.org

A Queer History of the United States is an eye-opening chronicle of one side of American history
that is routinely left out of classroom textbooks. From Thomas Morton, who broke away from
Plymouth Colony to found Merrymount (a place where same-sex desire, atheism, and interracial
marriage were accepted and welcome), to how World War II drastically changed gender roles, to
how organizations championing gay and lesbian rights such as ACT UP helped spread awareness
of the HIV and AIDS epidemics when the Reagan administration was far too silent, A Queer
History of the United States lives up to its title and is an absolutely invaluable addition to
American History as well as LGBT Studies shelves.

The Law/Justice Shelf

You may be a felon and not even know it. "Three Felonies a Day: How Feds Target the Innocent"
is a deconstruction of today's federal crime laws that are broad, vague, and almost impossible to
avoid violating. Harvey Silvergate holds modern law has been disconnected from common law
and due process and can easily be used for control and pinning crimes on the most innocent of
people. Stating that it targets people of any level and it threatens America's very nature and spirit,
"Three Felonies a Day" is a fascinating discussion of law and how law isn't very lawful
anymore.

The Criminology Shelf

Historian and true crime writer Richard C. Lindberg presents Heartland Serial Killers: Belle
Gunness, Johann Hoch, and Murder for Profit in Gaslight Era Chicago, a dual biography of two
notorious killers who combined marriage and murder in the Chicago area during the 1890s and
1900s. Johann Hoch was a bigamist and wife killer who openly claimed to have perfected a
"scientific technique" to romance and seduction; Belle Gunness was a "Black Widow" who used
matrimonial advertisements and the appeal of middle-age security on her farm to lure bachelors
to their deaths. In chronicling these two murderous individuals, Lindberg also draws connections
between Hoch and the serial killer H.H. Holmes, also known as the "Devil in the White City". A
handful of black-and-white photographs illustrate this chilling true crime chronicle.

The Parenting Shelf

The amount of things a mother must know are quite overpowering. "Mom's Book of Lists: 100
Practical Lists for Raising Your Kids" is a book filled with simple references on the daunting
task of caring for an occasionally troublesome youth for eighteen years. The lists touch on
everything from recipes, to finding entertainment and fun, understanding potty training and
developmental milestones, and anything and everything else that makes the job of parenting
some of the most stressful in the world. "Mom's Book of Lists" is an excellent pick for any
mother who wants a varied and useful reference with full color images and a bit of humor.

The Philosophy Shelf

Truth is not an absolute, and it certainly does not come from a sheltered understanding. "The
Quotable Krishnamurti" looks to the work of philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti, who threw away
the pressures of his Theosophist teachers and came to pursue his own philosophy free from
teachings of others. Robert Epstein compiles his quotes on a grand slew of subjects that speak on
many levels of our lives and society, from sex to anger, to the very concept of truth and what it
really means. "The Quotable Krishnamurti" is profound, thoughtful, and very highly
recommended to philosophy collections.